The Himalayan sports a silky coat of fine texture. The long, thick hairs stand off from its body.

Overview

Character:

This intelligent Himalayan is docile, yet perhaps the most outgoing of all Persians. This cat wears a sweet, but extreme expression.

Country of Origin:

United States and Britain

History:

During the 1920s crossbreeding between the Persian and Siamese occurred in Europe. The Persian breed contributed its coat length and temperament; the Siamese contributed its markings. During the 1930s, U.S. geneticists bred black longhair with a Siamese to product black longhaired kittens. Through backcrossing with a Persian, a pointed longhair cat developed. Both parents would needs recessive genes that would include the traits of long hair, blue eyes and a pointed color pattern. By crossing two Persian Siamese hybrids approximately 1 in 16 kittens will have Himalayan traits. A Canadian rancher and cattle judge also initiated a breeding program to help develop a longhair colorpoint cat.

Name:

Named after the pointed pattern of Himalayan rabbits, goats and mice in Asia. Colourpoint Longhair (Britain).

Temperament:

The endearing Himalayan is placid and friendly. This cat has an engaging personality.

Care:

Training:

After 16 weeks, Himalayan kittens have the social and physical strength to accept new surroundings or transportation by air.

Activity:

Himalayans are more active than Persians. They enjoy playing. Provide interactive toys. Owners should provide a surface such as a scratching post to allow their pet plenty of opportunity to scratch.

Ownership:

The Himalayan is an indoor cat. Owners should be prepared to spend time grooming their cats with a daily combing and regular bathing. Clean faces, especially the nose and eyes, once a day. This placid cat makes a good companion. Play with the cat, especially before bedtime, to help the cat sleep through the night without disturbing the owner.